Foldable iPhone rumoured to launch next year with limited availability, analyst details timeline

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has obtained new details regarding the production and timeline for Apple’s first foldable iPhone. Foxconn, Apple’s manufacturing partner, will reportedly start preparations for mass production in the second half of 2025, though the exact specifications of some components, such as the hinge design, have yet to be finalised.

The rumoured Apple iPhone Fold is expected to enter mass production in the later half of 2026, suggesting that it may be announced alongside the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro. The foldable display will likely be supplied by Samsung Display, which is said to be planning an annual production volume of 7 to 8 million panels. According to sources, Apple has already ordered enough components for 15 to 20 million foldable iPhones from its suppliers, though this quantity is meant to cover the product's entire lifespan rather than just its launch year. The company is expected to ship only 3 to 5 million units n 2026.

It's no surprise that Apple is projecting significantly lower sales volumes for its first foldable compared to conventional iPhone models, given the device is rumoured to be priced between $2,000 and $2,500. Reports suggest the iPhone Fold may feature a 5.5-inch outer screen and a 7.8-inch inner display. According to Ming-Chi Kuo, the phone will measure just 4.5 to 4.8 mm (approximately 0.18 to 0.19 inch) thick. It will likely include two rear cameras and two selfie cameras – one each on the main and secondary displays. Furthermore, the sleep/wake button is said to incorporate a built-in fingerprint sensor for Touch ID.